When Toyota unveiled the GT86 back in 2013, petrolheads instantly liked it with its drift-friendly handling and chirpy engine. In 2022, Toyota refreshed the sports car and included it in the GR (Gazoo Racing) portfolio by renaming it the GR86. Now, the all-new GR86 has landed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
First things first, the GR86 packs a front-mounted 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 228 hp and 250 Nm of torque. All the power is fed to the rear wheels. Two gearbox options are available: a six-speed manual (MT) or automatic transmission (AT).
The 0-60mph time is a very respectable 6.3 seconds. The boost in power and improvement in acceleration speeds is thanks to an increased bore size, changes to the intake and exhaust systems and upgrades made to Toyota’s D-4S dual injection technology.
On the outside, the GR86 has GR’s MATRIX ‘G Mesh’ Grille. Looking through the grille, eagle eyed car lovers will spot front-independent MacPherson struts with a rear double-wishbone suspension system also on offer for improved handling.
Step inside and you will find a 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) screen where you can choose between three modes: Normal, Sport, and Track. Track mode is the one we’re most excited for as, when selected, the TFT will display real-time readings of gear position, engine speed, water temperature, and oil temperature.
The 2+2 seating arrangement ensures that the practicality side of things is also taken care of with passengers also getting an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen compatible with wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Bluetooth, two USB ports and one auxiliary port, a six-speaker sound system and automatic dual-zone air conditioning system.
Kei Fujita, Chief Representative, Middle East and Central Asia Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, said, “We are very excited to bring the new GR86 to our customers in the Middle East. Designed for enthusiasts by enthusiasts, the latest addition to our GR range offers true sports car performance with a focus on added stability, power, and improved aerodynamics. Importantly, it is not simply for purists and those with high levels of experience; its rewards can be discovered day-to-day on the open road as much as on the track.”
“We are confident this latest addition to Toyota’s GR range will give more people opportunities to experience the pure joy of driving. I would like to thank all our customers in the region for their endless support, which continuously inspires us on our journey to make ‘ever-better cars’,” he concluded.
